Weather Information

Perhaps the biggest cause of flood-related deaths and injuries is lack of public understanding of the severity and danger involved with floods and flash floods. The following tips can help protect you during flood events.

Many people are killed by driving or walking on roads and bridges that are covered by water. Even though the water might look only inches deep, it could be much deeper and have strong currents. A mere six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes only two feet of rushing water to carry away most vehicles. This includes pickups and SUVs. (Source: National Weather Service)

Flooded creeks and streams are unpredictable. Even though the surface water may be smooth the water is moving very fast.

High water in streets and intersections will quickly stall motor vehicles. Most trucks, four-wheel drives, and sport utility vehicles also are susceptible to being swept away by high water. Such vehicles often give motorists a false sense of security, believing the vehicles are safe under any conditions.

If you are approaching a flooded roadway, turn around and take an alternate route, even though vehicles in front of you may have passed through the high water.

If your car stalls, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground. Many deaths have resulted from attempts to move stalled vehicles.

Never let children play near creeks or storm drains when the water is rising or high. Swimming skills have nothing to do with surviving a flooded creek or stream.

Debris or garbage in the water may include tires, shopping carts, furniture etc. These items can easily injure or trap a person under water.

Flooded streams and rivers are not safe for recreational boating. Many canoeists and kayakers have been rescued from dangerous rapids in flood-swollen streams and rivers.

What If Someone Falls in or is Trapped in Flood Water

Do not go after the victim!

If possible, throw them victim something to use as a flotation device (spare tire, large ball or foam ice chest).

Call 911 with correct location information on this water rescue situation.

Never set up a tent or camper on the bank of a river or stream. It is best to allow some distance between the campsite and water so if a flash flood does occur, you will have more time to move to higher ground.

If you live in a low-lying area or near a creek, pay close attention to water levels during heavy rain events. Water levels rise rapidly during flash floods, often surprising victims. Heavy rainfall upstream can cause a river or stream to rise quickly, even if it is not raining near you. Be prepared to move quickly to higher round if water levels begin rising. Quickly responding to an evacuation order can save your life.

If advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Follow recommended evacuation routes. Shortcuts may be blocked.

Tropical Storm Watch: Tropical Storm conditions are possible in the specified area of the Watch, usually within 36 hours.

Tropical Storm Warning: Tropical Storm conditions are expected in the specified area of the Warning, usually within 24 hours.

Hurricane Watch: Hurricane conditions are possible in the specified area of the Watch, usually within 36 hours. During a Hurricane Watch, prepare to take immediate action to protect your family and property in case a Hurricane Warning is issued.

Hurricane Warning: Hurricane conditions are expected in the specified area of the Warning, usually within 24 hours. Complete all storm preparations and evacuate if directed by local officials.

Short Term Watches and Warnings: These provide detailed information on specific hurricane threats, such as tornadoes, floods, and high winds.

Preparations You Can Make Before the Start of the Hurricane Season (June 1st)

Know the storm surge and flooding history of your area.

Learn safe evacuation routes.

Learn the location of official human and pet shelters by contacting us.

Decide where you will go in case of an evacuation order and plan your route accordingly.

Inventory your property and put the list in a safe place.

Prepare a disaster supply kit in a duffel bag, back pack, or covered garbage pail, which you can carry easily. If you need to evacuate, you should take this kit with you. It should include the flowing:

Bottled water and dried/canned foods to last 7-10 days

Manual can opener

Battery operated flashlight

Battery operated radio

Extra batteries

Clothes

Personal care items

Medications

Cash

First Aid Kit

Sleeping bags or blankets

Sturdy shoes

Insect repellent

Clear gutters and downspouts, and trim trees and shrubs.

If you have a boat, determine where to move it in an emergency.

Review your insurance policy.

Individuals with special sheltering or evacuation needs should contact their local offices of Emergency Services for assistance.

During the Storm

Stay inside a well-constructed building.

Stay away from windows and doors, even if they are covered.

Close all interior doors.

Go to the basement or an interior first floor room such as a bathroom, closet, or under the stairs.

In a multiple story building, go to the first or second floor and take refuge in the halls or other interior rooms away from windows.

Be alert for tornadoes, which often are spawned by hurricanes.

If the "eye" of the hurricane passes over your area, be aware that the improved weather conditions are temporary, and that the storm conditions will return with winds coming from the opposite direction - some times in a period of just a few minutes!

After the Storm

Stay in your protected area until announcements are made on radio or television.

If you have evacuated, do not try to return home until officials announce that your area is ready.

Proof of residency may be required in order to re-enter areas that have been evacuated.

If your home or building has structural damage, do not enter until it is checked by officials.